Iconic lookout tower at Lake Balaton set to be demolished due to structural risks
The fate of the Várhegyi Széplátó, perched on one of the most scenic spots along the southern shore of Lake Balaton, has been sealed: the iconic lookout tower in Fonyód is being demolished. The decision is not the result of political manoeuvring or a new development project, but rather a sobering reality — the structure has become dangerously unsafe.
In recent years, wood-destroying fungi and longhorn beetles have inflicted severe damage on the tower’s wooden framework, leaving no choice but to take action. Fonyód’s town council is expected to decide on demolition bids in July.
According to sonline.hu, the bidding process recently concluded, and an extraordinary council session in the coming weeks will determine which company will carry out the work. The goal is clear: demolition should be completed before the end of this year. The mayor emphasised that the situation is urgent and that the Lake Balaton tower poses an increasing danger.
What happened to the Lake Balaton lookout?
The Várhegyi Lookout Tower was built in 2011 with European Union funding, at a cost of roughly 80 million forints. At the time, it was considered one of the region’s most modern and spectacular viewing towers. However, by 2021 — just a decade later — it became evident that the wooden structure had suffered extensive damage.
Longhorn beetles — typically found in older wooden constructions — and wood-decaying fungi had nearly compromised the structure entirely. Once the full extent of the damage was revealed, the city filed a legal claim against the construction company. The court case concluded in 2024, awarding the municipality 60 million forints in damages, which will partially cover the demolition costs. Despite the legal resolution, the mayor stressed that the danger remains and that the structure must be dismantled as soon as possible.
It is important to note that not the entire tower will disappear from the hilltop. The 40-metre-high steel lattice antenna tower that surrounds the wooden structure will remain intact. Only the 25-metre wooden observation level, which suffered the infestation, will be removed. Nevertheless, the site is currently closed to visitors, and the scenic experience it once offered will not be available again for some time.
Reconstruction is possible—but not anytime soon
City leaders are considering rebuilding the lookout tower, but this is unlikely to happen before 2026 or 2027 at the earliest. Even the materials for the new structure have yet to be determined; experts will be consulted to advise on the design and construction methods. Until then, the site remains a viewpoint with no view.
The Várhegyi Széplátó was more than just a wooden structure — it was a symbol of the Lake Balaton landscape. Its panoramic views were a favourite among both locals and tourists. News of its demolition represents a symbolic loss for many: the end of a fragile harmony between nature and human ingenuity. While the Balaton region boasts several other lookout towers, few could match the experience offered by Fonyód’s.
Its disappearance raises fresh questions: What will the new structure look like? Will it retain any of the original tower’s character? How can modern materials be harmonised with the values of nature-based tourism? One thing is certain: local officials are not giving up. They remain committed to making the vista accessible again — safely and sustainably. But for now, Fonyód must say goodbye to one of its most beloved landmarks.
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